What does MEL stand for in aviation?

In aviation, MEL stands for Minimum Equipment List. This document is crucial for pilots and operators because it identifies the equipment and instruments that must be operational for an aircraft to be considered airworthy for flight.

The Minimum Equipment List allows pilots to determine what systems can be inoperative while still permitting the aircraft to operate legally under certain conditions. This is particularly important for maintaining safety and compliance with regulatory standards, as it provides guidance on how to proceed in the event that specific equipment fails.

It is essential for commercial pilots to understand the significance and requirements of the Minimum Equipment List, as it directly impacts operational safety and regulatory adherence during flight operations.